Malaysia’s opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has strongly expressed that the country does not need another casino, despite speculation that the government may be considering opening more gambling establishments to boost tourism and revenue.
Anwar, who is a prominent figure in Malaysian politics and a potential contender for the prime minister’s post, made his comments during a press conference in Kuala Lumpur. He emphasized that the negative impact of gambling on society far outweighs any potential economic benefits.
“Malaysia already has several casinos, and the social costs associated with gambling addiction and associated crimes are well-documented. We do not need to exacerbate this issue by opening more casinos,” Anwar stated.
The issue of expanding the gambling industry in Malaysia has been a contentious topic for some time. Proponents argue that it could boost tourism and attract high-spending visitors, while opponents, like Anwar, point to the numerous social issues that often accompany the presence of casinos.
Anwar’s comments come amid reports that the Malaysian government is considering granting additional casino licenses in an effort to stimulate the economy, which has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic. The country’s only legal casino, Resorts World Genting, has been closed for much of the year due to lockdowns and travel restrictions.
However, Anwar believes that there are other ways to boost the economy without resorting to gambling. He suggested that the government focus on promoting sustainable industries, investing in education and healthcare, and supporting small businesses.
“We need to prioritize the well-being of our people over short-term economic gains. Opening more casinos would only exacerbate social issues and harm our society in the long run,” Anwar emphasized.
Anwar’s stance on the issue has garnered support from various groups in Malaysia, including religious organizations and anti-gambling advocates. They have praised his commitment to upholding moral values and protecting the welfare of the people.
It remains to be seen whether the Malaysian government will heed Anwar’s advice and refrain from expanding the gambling industry in the country. In the meantime, the debate over the role of casinos in Malaysia’s economy is likely to continue to divide public opinion.
